How to Set up a Productive and Ergonomic Work Space at Home

office

Ready to set yourself up for success while you’re working from home? Well, first thing’s first! You need to create an awesome home office. We get it – it’s super comfortable to work from your bed and lie around. Unfortunately, not only does that not bode well for work, it’s also probably doing a number on your body. So, in order to be your most productive, focused, and happiest self, it’s important to take the time to set up a home office that’s ergonomic and quiet. Below, we’ve assembled some tips and tricks to create a great work-from-home experience. 

Tip #1: Make sure you smaller tech accessories are ergonomic

If you have a wired keyboard and mouse, the wires and movement limitations may end up leaving you feeling cramped and uncomfortable. In turn, you could be at risk for wrist and arm strains. To avoid this, invest in a wireless keyboard and mouse. Wireless tech accessories allow you to move around throughout the day so you’re not anchored in one particular location or position. This is a simple fix that can do wonders for your body over time. 

Tip #2: Focus on high-quality ergonomic furniture

We love standing desks! As you might have heard, sitting and a sedentary lifestyle is the new smoking. If you don’t feel like you can make it through an entire workday of standing around, consider a sit-stand converter. A converter allows you to switch back and forth between sitting and standing. You can start standing for ten-minute increments a day and work your way up from there. This will give you adequate breaks so you’re not putting too much stress on your joints and body.

If you hate standing, you can also get a comfortable desk chair and get an under-the-desk elliptical. These are small and don’t take up precious real estate in your home. It’s never a bad idea to also incorporate exercise breaks throughout your day to stretch out your legs, neck, and arms. 

Tip #3: Incorporate a schedule and project management software

When you’re working from home, it’s easy to lose track of time. Suddenly, you notice your kitchen is a little dirty or you notice your laundry piling up. All of sudden, two hours of your workday have been eaten up by various housekeeping tasks.

That’s one of the biggest dangers of working from home – being surrounded by distractions that can ruin your focus and productivity

To help keep you on track, make yourself a schedule. Wake up with an alarm (avoid hitting snooze!). Then, make yourself breakfast and coffee – use this time to get adjusted to the morning light and mentally prepare for work. 

Then, set a timer for your first morning tasks. Try to stay on task for at least twenty minutes; then, give yourself a five-minute break. Keep this pattern up until lunchtime. For your hour lunch, consider cooking yourself a meal or even using that hour to exercise. Exercise can help keep you mentally alert and increase your happy-feeling endorphins.

Besides a schedule, it’s also a good idea to rely on project management software. This is especially important if you are running up against deadlines constantly. Project management software gives you a way to prioritize your to-do list and see all of your projects from a broader view. Some types of project management software can also send you reminders as well as notifications. 

Tip #4: Remember to unplug

At the end of the day, it’s time to shut down your computer and relax. It can be a little difficult to maintain a work-life balance when your home is the office – so make sure to give yourself time to wind down. You can go for a walk outside or catch an episode of your favorite tv show. Whatever you choose to do, make sure that it’s something you enjoy and isn’t work-related.

Conclusion: Working from home and working on your happiness

Ergonomics is very important to your focus and productivity when you work from home. But that’s not the be-all and end-all of everything you should be worried about. Besides your physical health, make sure to value your mental health as well. Take adequate breaks and exercise during the day so you can stay energized and refreshed.